''This Is Going to Be Big!''

'Nonetheless, the league is prepared for various scenarios to delay the game, including holding back the start time in the event of liquid precipitation or too warm temperatures; in the event that the game is not playable on New Year’s Day, January 2 would serve as an alternate play date. Said Bettman, “We have a list of variables in mind. We will be in constant consultation with the teams, in case we have to postpone or reschedule.”'